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Beautiful pubs, bars and unusual spots to watch the world cup in

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Since the London 2012 Olympics there has been a huge void of that collective sporting fever that once consumed everything we did and talked about. But the World Cup tournament is finally here (Thursday 12 June to Sunday 13 July).

Whether you're a football fan or you can't stand the beautiful game, there's no denying it's an exciting time in the UK with people ready to pack out pubs and bars to watch the games.

But if, like us, you don't relish the idea of spending 2 hours in a rowdy, sweaty and rather smelly pub, you'll be glad to know there are actually a host of beautiful, cool and trendy spots to get your World Cup fix.

So block out your evenings - the UK is conveniently four hours ahead of Brazil, which means matches will kick off in our afternoons and evenings - and pick one or a few of these amazing spots to watch the biggest games on the planet...

This Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian (yes, all in one) bar and restaurant situated on the 38th and 39th floors of the Heron Tower, will be showing all the games in their bars and tree terrace. It operates on a first come first serve basis, otherwise premium tickets (£75 per person) for the exclusive lounge are available. The price includes a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne and a platter featuring aperitivos and our Sushisamba's signature Sushi rolls.

Hoping to find a taste of Brazil in London? Look no further. This East London bar is offering live music, samba dancers and Brazilian tapas food, such as Coixinha Baiana, a traditional Brazilian snack of chicken and cream cheese, and Pao de Queijo, Brazilian cheese bread with salsa.

Glasgow's newest craft brewery, Drygate, will show every game in their incredible 24-tap beerhall, with brews that represent the vast majority of participating nations. Not only can your try hundreds of beers from all over the world, you can watch it being brewed from the bar and even work with the team there to brew your own.

Make-up brand Benefit Cosmetics are challenging the definition of a 'beautiful pub' with this pop-up that's been specially created for the duration of the World Cup (12 June-13th July). Situated in Covent Garden, 'Gabbi’s Head' will feel more like your traditional pub (less like a Benefit boutique), but alongside pub games it will offer free beauty treatments such as makeovers and eyebrow tinting, a wine tasting and cheese night, and a Mimosa brunch.

This reformed industrial warehouse is the arty choice to watch the tournament unfold. Decorated with vintage caravans, bookshelves and trees, the atmosphere is a far cry from your local pub. Expect Brazilian street food along with enough space to samba and a retro shirt stall.

Pre-book one of many outdoor Thai-style beach huts (at Brixton, Camden and Wandsworth Grand Union branches) with televisions to watch a game privately with friends. If you predict the night's game's score correctly, you'll win a complimentary round of beers or cocktails for your hut.

This quirky venue under a railway arch is owned by authentic coffee company Climpson and Sons and Hackney locals will know all too well that its transformed into a casual dining and drinking space on Thursday nights, Friday nights and in the weekend, with great BBQ food, local beers and boutique wines. Add a brand new projector screen to that mix and it becomes London's most chilled out spot to watch England and big weekend games.

There can be few better places (in good weather) to watch a match than Brighton beach, with a cantina-style bar and food by Dead Good Burrito and MEATLiquor. Pre-register and arrive early for guaranteed entry.

Head to this basement bar if you're after a low-key more stylish evening, away from the rowdy and crowded pubs. While all the major games will be screened, the commentary will only be audible for England games and the final, making it easy to catch up with friends while catching a glimpse of the evening's biggest match. The bar, known for its gin, have whisked up a number of punch recipes that represent the World Cup teams - try England's Little Lady Grey and Brazil's Caipirinha. Each drink is served in a cool copper tankard.

Just a stone's throw away from Oxford Street, this swanky bar will host every game with a 2 for 1 offer on Brazilian cocktails, four for £10 on Brazilian Brahma beer and a World Cup special burger. Carbon boasts seven big screens with a full surround-sound so it's the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the games within chic surroundings.

A total of 450 tonnes of sand was pumped into this specially-designed Brazilian-style beach football stadium. Matches will continuously play live on the arena's giant 40sq metre screen. Naturally Brazilian food will be on offer from Manchester-based Bem Brasil.

Luxury comes hand in hand with the World Cup at this 5-star hotel. Set in an intimate Cigar Room, Crystal Room, or May Fair Theatre, guests can watch any game in HD whilst sipping on champagne and fine treats. Since packages start at £50 per guest, you could even extend it to a Father's Day treat.